Q: Why do I need to be insured? - P.Z. Chicago, Ill.
A: You, the provider, are held to a higher standard than the parents of the children in a court of law. As the adult professional, you are responsible for everything that happens to the child while he or she is in your care. Insurance also helps protect you against the trend of using children as a centerpiece in litigation. Lastly, some parents do not have individual medical insurance on their children, and if they do, their insurance may deny a claim that occurred at your place of business. Trip and fall medical expenses would become your responsibility at this point.
Q: I have homeowners insurance, won't that cover my childcare business? - T.A. Miami, FL
A: You should check your policy, but nearly all homeowners policies have a "stated business exclusion" which means that coverage does not extend to your home-based business. In effect, unless your homeowners policy specifically states that it provides for in-home business, the childcare insurance should be seriously considered.
Q: I bought an endorsement to my homeowners policy for my childcare business. What does it cover? - A.S. Concord, CT
A: I would advise that you check with your homeowners insurance agent. You would be wise to ensure that all of these things are covered: food & medicines given, field trips off premises, professional liability and first dollar defense, responsibility for trip and fall, and childcare equipment at the very least.
Q: I have a contract that parents have signed agreeing not to sue me. Isn't that enough insurance? - P.M. Everett, WA
A: Parents can not waive their rights in a court of law. Even if your parents sign off on your contract, they can still sue you later. The only value of your contract is to insure that parents realize that they are responsible for damage their children do to your home.
